Mississippi, specifically the Pine Belt region, is susceptible to a wide variety of weather events and other natural disasters, including hurricanes, tropical storms, severe thunderstorms and frequent tornadoes. These disasters can result in potentially hazardous living conditions for entire households and communities. Preparedness is key to survival and the following is a list of things your household ought to gather and compile into an emergency kit today:

-Water (enough for each member of your family to drink)

-Non-perishable food items (enough for each member of your family and your pets) and a manual can opener

-Whistle or flair to signal for help

-Basic tool kit, duct tape and tarps

-First aid kit

-Cash

-Climate-appropriate change of clothes (for each family member)

– Appropriate emergency supply of prescription medications

– Flashlight and replacement batteries

-Warm blankets and sleeping bags

-Copies of important family documents (passports, IDs, birth certificates)

-Sanitation materials (trash bags, hand sanitizers, feminine products, etc.)

   -Chargers and fully charged power banks for cell phones

*It is important to have these materials ready in an easy-to-access spot. It is also advisable to have multiple emergency kits: one at work, one in your family’s vehicle, and one at home.

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